Latest news with #AppleTree
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Ark Academy taking over last Apple Tree center
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The last of the four Apple Tree buildings in Sioux Falls has a new owner. The Apple Tree Children's Centers announced they were closing in December 2023. Shortly after that, it was announced that Apple Tree West would remain open under new ownership. In the following months, Apple Tree North and Apple Tree Valhalla were sold. Now, Apple Tree East been taken over. Former deputy sheriff charged with rape after standoff Ark Academy is the new name attached to the child care center on East 26th Street. Hollie and Brock Scott are now running the center. 'Ark Academy is a faith-based, Christian program we're putting together to serve the community. We've always had a passion for children and servitude,' Brock Scott said. As parents themselves, the Scotts want to create a space that feels safe for the whole family. 'The community needs good child care. I can't promise we'll be the best but we're going to try to give, every day, the best we can,' Hollie Scott said. The Scotts hope Ark Academy can also be a safe space for foster kids in the community. 'We're going to keep some spots open for the foster system. There's a lot of need for care in the foster system, but there's also a lot of need for parents in the foster system,' Hollie Scott said. Enrollment for Ark Academy is open now for infants to school-aged children. But they are also in need of some staff members. 'We really need a cook, so if you love to cook, we need a cook. And then lead teachers and assistant teachers,' Hollie Scott said. The plan is to open June 16th, but until then they are getting each room ready to welcome in kids once again. 'Looking forward to serving the community and helping also, like I said, that foster community as well and just do our service — just be here for people, love on people and be a shining light to the community,' Brock Scott said. Ark Academy will host an open house on June 5th from 4 to 7 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
From "Manufacturing Overseas" to "Cultural Voyage": STARAY Breaks Boundaries
From Osaka to Cannes: How a Pair of Chinese 3D-Printed Shoes Went So Far HANGZHOU, China, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On May 15, 2025, NambaParks in Osaka, a shopping district featuring top international brands, welcomed STARAY's second store in Japan. As fashion-forward individuals in Tokyo's Ginza district strolled through the cherry blossom rain in STARAY's 3D-printed shoes, this Chinese brand was simultaneously showcasing a cross-border dialogue between technology and art at the Cannes Film Festival. STARAY served as a supporting partner for the official event "China Night" at the 78th Cannes International Film Market. The opening of two stores in Japan within six months and the cultural resonance expected at the Cannes Film Festival indicate that STARAY is redefining the global perception of Chinese brands.A Journey of Trust, A Declaration of DreamsOn July 24, 2024, at STARAY's headquarters in Hangzhou, the AppleTree team from Japan gently presented a market research report on 3D-printed shoes to the STARAY team. This "love letter" to the product was the result of three months of testing competing products, conducting repurchase tests, and product research. From the initial discussions to the signing of the framework agreement on August 9, just 16 days later, the Japanese team had already drafted a "100-day action plan" for the Japanese market during their return flight. On September 12, the pop-up store at Daimaru debuted, and on October 2, STARAY showcased its products at the DMS Osaka 3D Printing Expo, followed by the Kobe Footwear Exhibition on October 16, creating a sensation in Japan's consumer goods market and the 3D printing industry. On November 28, the flagship store in Kitahorie, Osaka, opened, featuring a smart screen that displayed real-time operations of 3D printers from Chinese smart factories. Consumers in the experience area marveled at the shoes, exclaiming they felt "as light as walking barefoot." This dual disruption of technological precision and wearing comfort is reshaping Japan's perception of "Made in China." The speed of this collaboration's progress mirrors the fully lattice structure of STARAY's shoe soles—bursting with energy through precise calculations. In Japan's work culture, where "overwork" is common, STARAY's products have become a gentle remedy. Commuters have found that the fully lattice hollow soles alleviate foot pressure from an average of 20,000 steps a day. The elite circles in Ginza regard the "190 grams ultra-lightweight" as a key to escaping the confines of formal attire. This "rebellion" against an efficiency-driven society is the confidence that the Japanese team has staked everything on—they are betting not only on product performance but also on the deep-seated desire for mental and physical freedom in a fast-paced era. The Awakening and Breakthrough of Tech Consumer GoodsIn a time when many globally renowned sports brands are applying 3D printing technology to the design and production of athletic shoes, STARAY undoubtedly stands as a pioneer on this innovative path. In just six months since entering the Japanese market, the comfort brought by its fully lattice hollow structure, along with its functionality across various scenarios—fitness training, everyday wear, and outdoor activities—has led outdoor enthusiasts and office workers to deem STARAY as "an indispensable shoe in life." The Japanese footwear media "Shoes Post" commented on STARAY's products: "STARAY shoes combine ergonomic design with 3D printing technology, achieving a fusion of fashion and cutting-edge technology. They are comfortable, durable, and environmentally friendly. Lightweight and flexible, they offer a variety of colors and sizes to suit different lifestyles, making them ideal for urban living and sure to gain a large following." have always believed in a core principle: STARAY aims to be a brand that continuously brings surprises and emotions. We hope that when consumers think of STARAY, they envision freedom, self-expression, and the integration of high technology with lifestyle experiences,' said Xiuming Park, head of the Japanese agency. 'Opening our second store is not just a commercial calculation; it's a brand declaration.' Facing a performance curve that still needs to climb, the Japanese team demonstrates strategic resolve. They understand that in the Japanese market, which values a '200-year enterprise' culture, the continuous presence of physical stores is essential for building genuine consumer trust. The unfinished journey of Chinese footwear brands in the Japanese market over the past twenty years may be rewritten by a pair of 3D-printed shoes. This transformation represents not only breakthroughs in additive manufacturing technology but also a qualitative shift in Chinese consumer brands from "cost-performance output" to "value dialogue." As STARAY founder Luo Jie stated, 'We aim to be translators of technology and culture.' STARAY's successful entry into the Japanese high-end consumer market proves that when Chinese companies deeply integrate technological expertise, digital infrastructure, and localized operations, they can break the stereotype that "Made in China means low-end." 'I hope STARAY can be the first Chinese footwear technology brand to make a mark in the Japanese market, becoming a unique leader in this field through its distinctive additive manufacturing technology and fashion integration capabilities,' expressed the head of the Japanese AppleTree team with confidence. A Voyage Abroad: The Value Leap from Manufacturing to Cultural InfluenceIn STARAY's global expansion blueprint, the Japanese market serves not only as a testing ground but also as a strategic pivot. The appearance at the Cannes Film Festival represents a significant exploration of STARAY's focus on building cultural influence for Chinese brands. As the red carpet unfurls at the Palais des Festivals, STARAY's 3D-printed shoes transcend being mere tech consumer products, becoming vessels for dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures. On May 15, 2025, as an official supporting partner for the "China Night" event at the 78th Cannes International Film Market, STARAY will participate in this premier global cultural event—marking not only the debut of Chinese 3D printing technology on the international film festival stage but also signaling a paradigm shift for Chinese brands from "manufacturing overseas" to "cultural voyages."The construction of brand cultural influence is never about piling up technical parameters; it is about a deep resonance with human values. STARAY's choice to collaborate with the Chinese film industry stems from their shared path of breakthrough—opening the gates of Berlin with "Red Sorghum," dazzling Cannes with "Farewell My Concubine," and redefining sci-fi narratives with "The Wandering Earth." The journey of Chinese cinema over thirty years, breaking the dominance of Western cultural discourse, mirrors the transition of Chinese brands from "product export" to "value export." On the stage of the "China Night" event at the 78th Cannes International Film Market, STARAY will appear as a "supporting partner for the China Film and Forum," transforming the brand's pursuit of "mental and physical freedom" into tangible empowerment for Chinese cultural narratives. This choice reflects the brand's commitment to "long-termism": just as Chinese filmmakers use cinematic language to deconstruct the cultural barriers between East and West, STARAY believes that only by rooting itself in the fertile soil of humanistic spirit can it truly bridge the gap between commerce and civilization. The philosophy of "entrusting the body to the product and the heart to the brand" takes on new meaning at this moment—when technology becomes a tool that serves humanity, and when brands become bridges for cultural dialogue, the expedition of Chinese intelligence is no longer a one-dimensional commercial expansion but a civilizational practice about "how to help the world better understand China." Media ContactCompany Name: STARAYContact: Cora HuEmail: Cora@ Photos accompanying this announcement are available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
13-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Second Store in Japan - STARAY Enters the Premier Shopping District of Osaka NambaParks
BUSINESS WIRE)--In May 2025, STARAY opened its second store in Osaka, Japan, while simultaneously preparing to make its red carpet debut as a supporting partner at the "China Night" event of the 78th Cannes Film Festival. From fashion-forward individuals in Tokyo strolling through cherry blossom rain in 3D-printed shoes to witnessing the dialogue between technology and art on the Cannes red carpet, this Chinese brand is reshaping global perceptions with its "intelligent manufacturing." A Journey of Trust, A Leap in Speed As Japanese professionals face the fatigue of averaging 20,000 steps a day, fully lattice hollow soles from STARAY's 3D printed shoes provide a gentle declaration against the efficiency-driven society with their "190 grams ultra-lightweight" and "barefoot feel." After three months of in-depth research, Japan's AppleTree agency finalized a partnership with STARAY in just 16 days, describing the 3D-printed shoes as offering "indescribable comfort." From signing the framework agreement on August 9 to the opening of two stores by November 28—just 128 days—STARAY made a remarkable entry into the Japanese market, showcasing its technology with smart screens directly linked to Chinese factories. The products, featuring "190 grams ultra-lightweight" and "fully lattice hollow soles," have disrupted Japan's perception of "Made in China." The Awakening and Breakthrough of Tech Consumer Goods STARAY broke new ground by integrating ergonomic design with 3D printing technology, quickly becoming known as "an indispensable shoe in life" among Japanese consumers due to its comfortable experience and multifunctionality across various scenarios (fitness, commuting, outdoor activities). This journey not only signifies technological breakthroughs but also marks a qualitative shift for Chinese brands from "cost-performance output" to "value dialogue." As founder Luo Jie stated, "We aim to be translators of technology and culture," taking concrete actions to dismantle the stereotype that "Made in China means low-end." A Voyage Abroad: The Value Leap from Manufacturing to Cultural Influence In STARAY's global strategy, the Japanese market serves as a strategic pivot, while the appearance at the Cannes Film Festival represents an important exploration in building cultural influence. On May 15, 2025, STARAY will take the stage at Cannes as a supporting partner for "China Night," with its 3D-printed shoes potentially serving as a vessel for dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures, facilitating the shift of Chinese brands from "manufacturing overseas" to "cultural voyages." By following a similar breakout path as Chinese cinema, STARAY aims to incorporate the concept of "mental and physical freedom" into cultural narratives, using humanistic spirit as its foundation to propel Chinese intelligent manufacturing from commercial expansion into the realm of civilizational dialogue.
Scottish Sun
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
BAFTA TV Awards viewers ‘disgusted' as beloved star is snubbed from In Memoriam segment – but there's a good reason
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BAFTA TV Awards viewers have been left feeling 'disgusted' as a beloved star is snubbed from the In Memoriam segment - but there's a good reason. The star-studded ceremony was held at the Royal Festival Hall and hosted by Traitors US presenter Alan Cumming. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 5 BAFTA TV Awards viewers have been left feeling 'disgusted' as a beloved star is snubbed from the In Memoriam segment - but there's a good reason Credit: Getty 5 Dame Maggie Smith played the formidable Violet Crawley in the ITV drama Downton Abbey Credit: Alamy 5 Dame Maggie Smith playing one of her most famous roles of teacher Miss Jean Brodie Credit: Alamy During the ceremony, French violinist Esther Abrami performed the song 'Apple Tree', as a tribute was paid to the TV careers of several actors, presenters and other notable figures. Among them were TV doctor Michael Moseley, EastEnders and The Bill star Roberta Taylor, Going for Gold host Henry Kelly, Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne, and Dr Kildare and Shogun actor Richard Chamberlain. Coronation Street actor Timothy West and Man About the House star Brian Murphy were also included - after their omission from the Bafta's earlier this year sparked criticism reported The Independent. But fans were left unimpressed as they noticed that Downton Abbey and Harry Potter star Dame Maggie Smith, and star of stage and screen Dame Joan Plowright had been missed from the list. 'No Maggie Smith?? Feels like quite an oversight,' said one person on social media. Another added: 'They left out Dame Maggie Smith from the list of those who died during the last year. DISGUSTING. SHAME on you." "No mention of Dame Maggie Smith when remembering those who died in the last year. Shame on BAFTA," stated another. A furious viewer wrote: 'Bafta TV Awards snubbed Maggie Smith and Joan Plowright, even if they are know mostly for film/theatre. 'They did a lot of TV, especially in the early days when they did plays on TV and period dramas especially Shakespeare. "Maggie Smith was in iconic Downton Abbey. Plowright has a Golden Globe and Emmy for TV!' Celebrating Dame Maggie Smith: A Life on Stage and Screen Another angry fan said: "No Maggie Smith tribute!! That's outrageous!" However, there was apparently good reason for them not to appear in the segment, as they had both received special tributes at the Bafta Film Awards In Memoriam segment earlier this year. Actors who are more closely associated with television and known for their TV achievements are usually honoured at the TV event, while those whose roles are more aligned with movies are honoured at the Film Awards. Dame Maggie Smith died in September 2024, aged 89 after an incredible sixty year career. She won two Oscars: for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and California Suite in 1979. She also played many brilliant characters from the formidable school teacher Jean Brodie, to Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series to Violet Crawley in the ITV drama Downton Abbey. Dame Joan Plowright, who retired in 2014 after becoming legally blind, died in January this year. She was best known for her roles in Dennis the Menace, 101 Dalmatians and The Entertainer, as well as Enchanted April, which earned her an Oscar nomination in 1993. She was also married to industry veteran Lord Laurence Olivier. 5 Dame Joan Plowright, who retired in 2014 after becoming legally blind, died in January this year Credit: Alamy
The Irish Sun
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
BAFTA TV Awards viewers ‘disgusted' as beloved star is snubbed from In Memoriam segment – but there's a good reason
BAFTA TV Awards viewers have been left feeling 'disgusted' as a beloved star is snubbed from the In Memoriam segment - but there's a good reason. The star-studded ceremony was held at the Royal Festival Hall and hosted by Traitors US presenter 5 BAFTA TV Awards viewers have been left feeling 'disgusted' as a beloved star is snubbed from the In Memoriam segment - but there's a good reason Credit: Getty 5 Dame Maggie Smith played the formidable Violet Crawley in the ITV drama Downton Abbey Credit: Alamy 5 Dame Maggie Smith playing one of her most famous roles of teacher Miss Jean Brodie Credit: Alamy During the ceremony, French violinist Esther Abrami performed the song 'Apple Tree', as a tribute was paid to the TV careers of several actors, presenters and other notable figures. Among them were TV doctor Michael Moseley, EastEnders and The Bill star Roberta Taylor, Going for Gold host Henry Kelly, Drag Race UK winner Coronation Street actor Timothy West and Man About the House star Brian Murphy were also included - after their omission from the Bafta's earlier this year sparked criticism reported But fans were left unimpressed as they noticed that Downton Abbey and BAFTAS 'No Maggie Smith ?? Feels like quite an oversight,' said one person on social media. Another added: 'They left out ." "No mention of Dame Maggie Smith when remembering those who died in the last year. Shame on BAFTA," stated another. A furious viewer wrote: 'Bafta TV Awards snubbed Maggie Smith and Joan Plowright, even if they are know mostly for film/theatre. Most read in TV 'They did a lot of TV, especially in the early days when they did plays on TV and period dramas especially Shakespeare. " Maggie Smith was in iconic Downton Abbey . Plowright has a Golden Globe and Emmy for TV!' Celebrating Dame Maggie Smith: A Life on Stage and Screen Another angry fan said: "No Maggie Smith tribute!! That's outrageous!" However, there was apparently good reason for them not to appear in the segment, as they had both received special tributes at the Actors who are more closely associated with television and known for their TV achievements are usually honoured at the TV event, while those whose roles are more aligned with movies are honoured at the Film Awards. Dame Maggie Smith died in September 2024, aged 89 after an incredible sixty year career. She won two Oscars: for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie in 1970 and California Suite in 1979. She also played many brilliant characters from the formidable school teacher Jean Brodie, to Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series to Violet Crawley in the ITV drama Downton Abbey . She was best known for her roles in Dennis the Menace, 101 Dalmatians and The Entertainer, as well as Enchanted April, which earned her an Oscar nomination in 1993. She was also married to industry veteran 5 Dame Joan Plowright, who retired in 2014 after becoming legally blind, died in January this year Credit: Alamy 5 Dame Joan Plowright posed for photographs after being made a Dame by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace in London in 2004 Credit: Reuters
